Hotshots pummel Aces, near semis return

MANILA, Philippines -- Looking to atone for their early exit last conference, Purefoods Star Hotshots came from a week-long rest sharp and motivated as they spilled Alaska Aces, 120-86, in another lopsided game at the start of the PBA Commissioner's Cup quarterfinals Friday night at the Big Dome.

Denzel Bowles and James Yap led the Hotshots onslaught with 20 and 18 points, respectively as seven players scored at least eight points each for the well-rested defending champion.

Purefoods took the fight out of Alaska right in the first quarter establishing an early double-digit lead. 

The Aces never came close the rest of the way. 

“I’d be a lot happier if this was Game Two instead of Game One. This one won’t mean anything unless we come out and beat them Sunday,” said Purefoods coach Tim Cone.

The Hotshots will be looking to wrap up the short series on Sunday to advance to the semifinals.